In order to boost your mood and your self esteem all you may have to do is 5 minutes of outdoor exercise: walking, gardening, cycling, fishing, boating, horse-riding and farming; they can all help, according to a recent study. The study brought to light the importance of spending time in gardens, parks and other sylvan areas.

Researchers advise such ‘Green exercise’ for the benefit of individuals and society as well as to reduce health care costs.

While we have known for a while now that outdoor exercise is beneficial in order to reduce the risk of mental illness and improve well being, this study sheds new light on exactly how little time is needed to actually reap the benefits.

The young and the mentally were seen to benefit the most from such green exercise, however the study noted that people from all walks of life, all ages, and social strata were seen to benefit from this.

So it would seem that improving self esteem and mood is literally as simple as a stroll in the park!

Use of this site is subject to our terms of service and privacy policy. All material provided on this website is provided for informational or educational purposes only. Consult a physician/doctor regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your symptoms or medical conditions.